Grade Level: 6–8
Subject: Technology / STEM
Duration: 3–4 class periods (45–60 minutes each)
Tools Needed:
Computers with internet access
TinkerCad student accounts
Projector/screen for demonstration
Students will design a 3D model using TinkerCad that includes at least 40 shapes, demonstrating their understanding of 3D modeling, scale, and creativity.
ISTE Standards:
Empowered Learner – Students use technology to take an active role in choosing and achieving their learning goals.
Innovative Designer – Students use a variety of technologies to create new, useful or imaginative solutions.
Virginia CTE Technology Competencies:
Demonstrate creativity and innovation using digital tools.
Apply design process to complete a project.
Day 1 – Introduction & Planning (45–60 min)
Hook/Discussion (10 min):
Show examples of 3D models in TinkerCad. Ask: What would you create if you could build anything?
Project Options Presentation (10 min):
Students may choose to create one of the following:
A space station
A room inside a house
A vehicle (car, truck, spaceship, etc.)
A landscape (mountains, forest, beach, etc.)
A cartoon character
A robot
Instructions (10 min):
Must use at least 40 shapes
Must include labels or callouts for key features
Must be original (no copying designs from online galleries)
Sketch & Plan (15–20 min):
Students sketch their design on paper, labeling parts and estimating how many shapes each section will use.
Days 2 & 3 – Design in TinkerCad (90–120 min)
Students build their models in TinkerCad using their plans.
Teacher circulates to check progress, help with shape manipulation, and encourage use of grouping, hole features, and duplication.
Encourage students to save and iterate on their design.
Day 4 – Presentation & Reflection (45–60 min)
Students present their work to classmates in a brief "gallery walk" or class tour format.
They explain their design choices, challenges, and how they used the 40-shape minimum.
Students complete a short reflection sheet:
What did I create and why?
What was challenging?
What skill am I most proud of?
Futuristic Cityscape
Design a city of the future with skyscrapers, transportation systems, parks, and power sources. Include innovative technology like floating buildings or solar highways.
Theme Park Ride or Attraction
Create a roller coaster, water ride, or themed attraction. Include surrounding scenery, seating, and entrance structures.
Underwater Habitat
Build a research station or home beneath the sea. Add features like submarines, coral reefs, sea creatures, and airlocks.